Are you looking for an easy way to eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains? When planning your meals, don't be afraid to take meat off of the menu!
Traditionally, Americans view meat as their main source of protein. However, there are plenty of non-meat protein sources, such as beans, lentils, tofu, seitan, tempeh, nuts, seeds, quinoa, amaranth, and oats, that provide a wide variety of valuable nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats. Vegetables provide protein as well - peas, asparagus, broccoli, and potatoes to name a few.
Whether you eat meat at every meal or not at all, consuming more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a great benefit to your health.
Try these tips:
• Treat meat as the side dish - Only cover ¼ of your plate with meat and fill the rest with plant foods.
• Eat one vegetarian meal per day. Choose oatmeal with fruit for breakfast or a grilled vegetable panini for lunch.
• Search the web for tasty vegetarian recipes or replace the meat in a favorite recipe with a plant-based protein.
